Lightning sparks fires on Tonasket Ranger District

TONASKET – This evening’s lightning storm was followed by multiple smoke reports. Whitestone, Cayuse and Palmer Mountain were among areas where fires were located. Tonasket Ranger District has confirmed a small fire on Palmer Mountain, within Bureau of Land Management property. The fire is estimated to be less than one-quarter acre.

Fire response is a coordinated effort between Local, State and Federal firefighting resources.

Bonaparte Lookout signed off for the evening after dark, but will be back in service Sunday morning to help firefighters. Firefighters and two engines from Chelan Ranger District and the Bureau of Land Management will arrive in the morning to assist. As conditions warm and dry tomorrow, additional smoke columns may be visible. Please call 911 to report fires.

About Shannon O'Brien

Shannon O'Brien is a U.S. Forest Service spokeswoman for the Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest